Giant Hogweed warning: what to do if you come into contact

People are being warned to be extra vigilant after a number of reports of the toxic giant hogweed across Northern Ireland in the last couple of weeks.

The plant grows very quickly and contains chemicals known as photo-sensitising furanocoumarins.

These substances prevent the body from protecting itself from UV light and can lead to severe burns.

A red rash develops on the skin, which grows more painful and then blisters.

Guy Barter of the Royal Horticultural Society said: “Wherever you live in the UK, you can expect to encounter this plant”.

Paul Cook, curator at RHS Garden Harlow Carr in Harrogate, points out that in some places it’s on the increase. “You tend to find it in less accessible places,” he says.

“In some parts of the county it’s increasing and in others, where it’s been controlled, it’s going down.”

It’s attractive appearance can lull unsuspecting people who stumble across it into a false sense of security. “It’s very distinctive but a lot of people have forgotten just how horrible it can be,” said Paul.

Those who encounter Giant Hogweed certainly don’t forget it in a hurry.

“When the sap or juice from the stem comes into contact with the skin it can cause intense irritation, particularly in the sunny weather.

“It doesn’t last very long but it can feel like you’re skin is being burned.”